Works to start at Latrobe Regional Hospital

Member for Morwell Russell Northe spoke in Parliament this week of the Coaliton Government’s $73 million investment to upgrade Latrobe Regional Hospital (LRH).

Mr Northe said he was proud that the Coalition Government had allocated $73 million towards the Stage 2a development of the hospital in its 2014/2015 budget.

“Works will commence shortly and I understand Cockram has been selected as the successful tenderer of this vital project that will not only improve local health services but provide an opportunity for local businesses to participate,” Mr Northe said.

Mr Northe said Cockram had previously worked on local projects and with construction to take place over many months this will provide a strong boost to our local economy.

“In addition there will be indirect benefits to local restaurants, retail outlets and accommodation facilities.

“As the Member for Morwell and a resident of the Latrobe Valley I’m thrilled this development is going ahead enhancing local health outcomes and providing a significant economic boost to our region.”

Mr Northe said the stage 2a redevelopment included extra beds, a new emergency department, 12-bed short-stay unit, two day-rooms for endoscopy procedures, a new entrance, new admissions area, a new public car park and the addition of a catheterisation centre laboratory for heart patients.

“This investment will ensure those who are seeking access to local health services will be provided with world-class health care in our community reducing the need in many instances to travel to Melbourne,” Mr Northe said.

“The redevelopment is a good outcome for patients, staff and doctors at LRH in providing our health professionals with improved facilities to deliver healthcare services.

“This project builds on previous investment from the Liberal-National Coalition including additional mental health beds, a new rehabilitation centre, extra medical equipment, a new pain clinic in addition to substantial developments in cancer care services.”